To get my bearings with DPNs, I made two iPod cozies - they're quick, only took an afternoon, and can get you ready to attempt larger projects knitted with them.

I used a pattern that I bought at a local LYS for beginning socks from Knitting Pure and Simple. For me, the hardest part about sock knitting was not freaking out about the DPNs. Turning the heel just magically happened when I followed the pattern. You just need to trust the pattern!

If you want to start socks, I do recommend the Knitting Pure and Simple Beginner Sock Pattern (not free - only available through yarn shops, but it was totally worth it for me). But before you jump in, learn these basic things:

I don't know what other skills different sock patterns use, but these 5 were sufficient for the socks I made.

None of these techniques are all that difficult, but it might be overwhelming to learn all or most of them in one project. Take an afternoon, some practice yarn, and visit http://www.knittinghelp.com and you should be fine. She even shows how to turn a basic heel and get started on the gusset in one of the videos.

I made the shocking pink coif from knitty for my first non-scarf thing, and it was very straight forward! It's quick, rewarding, and teaches you increases, decreases and i-cord without stress. Definitely good skills to have! Free pattern here: http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEspring03/PATTcoif.html

After that, I made the Panta with leftover yarn from the coif. The pattern is always floating around on the first or second page of completed projects. That's great for increases, decreases, and ribbing.

After those two projects, I was game for socks! They turned out fine! Now I'm going to make a quick knitted t-shirt. Maybe those two patterns will give you all a similar boost in knitting confidence. And both are nice to have around, for those of us "enjoying" a cold winter right now...

I'm not one to stifle a good discussion, but is this thread really the best place for a debate on whether animal yarns are humane or not?

Robyn asked,

Quote

Does anyone have suggestions for non-animal yarn that knits well and looks great, I am trying to expand my horizons.

All she is looking for is some yarn advice. If she had noted allergies as her reason for not wanting to use wool, no one would have tried to convince her that she's not really allergic, or that she's just misinformed, or that wool from company so-and-so won't make her sneeze. But as soon as she mentions that she's vegan everyone jumps on her, and most aren't even answering her question!

I'm only speaking up because I'd hate for this to conversation to get nasty, and I'd love for Robyn to get some yarn advice; I'm interested too!

So, that being said, what are some good yarns that just happen not to include animal products?

Aw, your dogs are adorable. I love the idea of soft, light weight, comfy dog collars. I've met some pups whose necks had been rubbed bare by their rough nylon or leather collars! If I was a doggie I'd much prefer this kind of collar.